Contained is my final paper for U.S. History 1700. Throughout the course I found connections between aspects of the reading which were of incredible importance to understanding the prevalence of racial, economic, societal issues going within the country now. It's important to understand context, I believe this course has aided me in this. To develop a reasonable to ability to look at a historical phenomenon and discern through informed reason it's significance. Outside of the technical skills which I feel iv'e gained from this course. The ability to become a more critical, informed, understanding, considered individual was the real gain. Class discussion were always engaging, as were they eye-opening. I feel more comfortable in my abilities, and more intrigued after having taken this course. I enjoyed the people I had the opportunity to speak with, and to hear their opinions and perspectives was a privilege I feel very grateful to have enjoyed. I learned a great deal and look forward to furthered experiences in my education abroad.